Risk / Health Info for Northern Mariana Islands

The vaccinations you need for the Northern Mariana Islands are listed on this page.

Travellers should guard against bug bites, to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses such as chikungunya, Zika and dengue fever. Women who are pregnant or considering becoming pregnant might consider avoiding travelling to the Northern Mariana Islands.

Practise safe food and water precautions. Don’t eat food if you can’t peel it, boil it or cook it, so you can reduce the chance of getting “travellers’ diarrhea.”

Remember you need travel insurance whenever you leave Canada. Before you leave the country, check with your provincial or territorial health authority for more information.

Dengue fever in Northern Mariana Islands

There have been cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Northern Mariana Islands. Dengue fever is also known as breakbone fever because of the severe bone, joint and muscular pains it causes, in addition to flu-like fever and headache. There is no vaccine for dengue fever. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Sleeping with mosquito nets is also recommended.

Chikungunya virus in Northern Mariana Islands

Cases of Chikungunya virus have been reported in Northern Mariana Islands. It is spread by day-biting mosquitoes and you can guard against infection by covering up and using mosquito repellents. Infection results in joint pains, fever, rash and headache. It clears up after a few days, but some patients are left with swollen and painful joints for weeks or even years afterwards.

Zika in Northern Mariana Islands

Global Affairs Canada has issued a warning about the risk of contracting Zika in Northern Mariana Islands. Zika is a viral disease spread by mosquitoes, and infection during pregnancy has been linked to birth defects. Women who are pregnant or planning to get pregnant should take advice before travelling to Northern Mariana Islands. Zika symptoms include rash, itch, mild fever, headache, red eyes, muscle and joint pains. Avoid mosquito bites by using insect repellents (50% DEET) and by wearing protective clothing. Mosquito nets and air conditioning should be used when sleeping.